The jury’s answers to the questions it receives from the court (judge) in the jury charge determines the outcome of the lawsuit (the jury verdict), and is ultimately reflected in the court’s judgment (the statement of the relief granted in the lawsuit—generally who owes who money).
In Georgia, as in other states, the jury plays a critical role in the legal process during a trial. After hearing the evidence and arguments presented by both sides, the jury receives instructions from the judge, known as the jury charge. These instructions guide the jury on the legal standards and definitions they must apply when deliberating and making decisions on the case. The jury then answers specific questions related to the facts of the case, which are structured to lead them to a verdict. The jury's answers to these questions determine the outcome of the lawsuit, which is the jury verdict. This verdict indicates which party has prevailed on the key issues of the case. The court then enters a judgment based on the jury's verdict, which is a formal statement of the result of the lawsuit, including the relief granted, such as monetary damages or injunctive relief. The judgment is the enforceable order of the court that reflects the jury's decision and dictates the resolution of the dispute between the parties.